PARADE RULES
Theme: Red, White & Bright: An American Christmas
This year’s theme celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with hometown pride, Christmas lights, classic Americana, and the spirit of unity that brings our community together.
BEST THEME INTERPRETATION
The float that best captures the parade theme will earn special recognition and major bragging rights, so bring your most creative ideas to life and wow the crowd.
Please follow the rules below to help ensure a safe and enjoyable parade. Violations may result in disqualification from future parades.
No Throwing or Distributing Materials:
Candy, flyers, samples, promotional items, or any other materials may NOT be thrown, handed out, or distributed from any float, vehicle, walking group, or parade entry during Saturday’s parade.
Groups that would like to pass out candy, goodies, or connect with families are encouraged to participate in Friday evening’s Lighting of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Pumping Unit as part of Christmas in the Pines weekend.
Candy and goodies on Friday. Floats and lights on Saturday.
Float Description:
Submit a written description of your float or entry. This will be used for media narration at The Pines Theater, City Hall, and in front of the Lufkin City Hall.
Float Size and Safety:
Only one float per organization.
Floats must not exceed 15 feet in width and 13 feet in height, with a maximum length of 75 feet.
All materials must be fire-retardant.
Maintaining Pace:
All parade participants, including float passengers, walking units, and drivers, must keep pace and maintain no more than a 10-foot gap between entries.
Licensed Drivers:
All vehicles must be driven by a licensed driver according to Lufkin Police Department regulations. No exceptions.
Safe Driving:
Cars, motorcycles, and other motorized vehicles must not exhibit unsafe driving behaviors such as spinning out, squealing tires, popping wheelies, revving engines excessively, or using loud pipes.
Illumination:
Because the parade takes place after dark, all entries must have sufficient exterior lighting for safety and visibility. Floats without adequate exterior illumination will not be permitted to participate.
Signage:
Each entry must clearly display a sign or banner with the organization’s name on both sides of the float or vehicle. Signs should be large enough to read from a distance and securely attached.
Escort Walkers:
Each float must be accompanied along the entire parade route by at least two escort walkers, one on each side. Walkers must be at least 10 years old and should dress in festive, reflective attire.
Walker Attire:
All walkers must wear reflective material, carry flashlights, and dress in holiday attire.
No Additional Santas:
The City of Lufkin provides the official Santa Claus for the parade. Santa will appear on the final float. No other Santa Claus appearances or life-sized Santa figures are allowed.
No Horses or Live Animals:
For the safety of all participants and spectators, horses and other live animals are not permitted in the parade.
Lineup Reminder:
Participants are encouraged to dress in holiday attire and start lining up after 12 PM. All entries must be in line by 4:30 PM to participate. The Lufkin Police Department will not allow entries after 5:00 PM.
Let’s make this year’s parade shine bright.
Happy Holidays,
Visit Lufkin Team